Chrysostom (John of Antioch)
347-407 A.D.

John was born and reared in Antioch, Syria, where he studied the scriptures and served as a deacon. Later he became the pastor of the leading church. During his ten year pastorate there he taught the scriptures and wrote commentaries.

He was made Archbishop of Constantinople in 397 and preached there for six years condemning sin everywhere, even in high places. The Empress Eudosia banished him because she said that he had insulted her. He was soon recalled but not tamed. He continued his strong preaching against sin until banished again, he died in the desert.

Thirty years later his bones were taken back to Constantinople and buried with great pomp. His oratorical powers caused him to be called Chrysostom which means “the golden mouth.”